Fruit ripening represents an example of positive feedback. Which one of the following statements accurately justifies why the process of fruit ripening involves positive feedback?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Positive feedback occurs when a process is amplified or reinforced by its own output. In this case, the chemical signals trigger enzymatic activity that converts starches into sugars, which leads to further fruit ripening, softening of pulp, and colour change. This constitutes positive feedback because the output (soft and sweet fruit) reinforces the process (enzymatic activity) that leads to it. Options A and B oppose positive feedback because they describe processes that would eventually lead to stasis or decay. Option D is also incorrect because it suggests that fruit ripening involves shutting down enzymatic activity, which is inconsistent with the need for enzymatic activity to convert starches into sugars.

Fruit Ripening Represents an Example of Positive Feedback